Wisconsin DNR - Prevent Manure Runoff

Prepare for Winter Now

Avoid extra costs, labor, stress and legal bills that can come with overtopped manure storage structures and spills. Take steps this fall to make sure you have the manure storage capacity you need to get through the winter.

DNR Spills Hotline
1-800-943-0003

Get Help Immediately if Runoff or a Spill Occurs

Farmers are required to immediately report manure runoff or a spill to the DNR.

DNR, DATCP, UW-Extension, NRCS and the Professional Nutrient Applicators Association of Wisconsin (PNAAW) are teaming up to reach producers with important reminders aimed at keeping Wisconsin citizens, waters and farms healthy.

Farmers - hear what you can do:

Mike Austin [AUDIO Length :58] urges you to act now to prevent manure runoff later.
Pam Jahnke (the Farm Babe) [AUDIO Length :60] has an important reminder - see more on her website
Bob Bosold [AUDIO Length :55] spreads the message on WAXX (Eau Claire).

Empty Your Manure Storage Structure

Watch weather forecasts daily for predictions of rain and melting snow that could result in runoff and avoid spreading manure during these times.

Type in your farm's location for current and future weather forecasts at the National Weather Service [exit DNR]

If your farm is a Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) that's required to have a wastewater discharge permit, follow your permit restrictions on when and where you can spread. Follow CAFO Winter Spreading Restrictions [PDF 45KB]

Plant Fall Cover Crops

Reduce nutrient losses and prevent erosion by planting fall cover crops. Learn about some cover crop options [PDF 2.3MB]

Develop a Nutrient Management Plan

Start working now with your local county Land Conservation or DNR staff to develop a nutrient management plan. You'll keep fertilizer costs down by better managing manure, better protect your land and water and meet environmental laws.

Wisconsin Agriculture Department (DATCP) Nutrient management planning [exit DNR]
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Nutrient Management [exit DNR]

Develop a Winter Spreading Plan

A winter spreading plan is part of a good nutrient management plan, but if you can't get the full plan done in time, make sure you get a game plan for winter spreading, especially if you have limited storage.

Ask your county Land Conservation Department to help you get started: 2008-2010 DATCP Land and Water Conservation Directory [exit DNR]
Use "NRCS 590 Nutrient Application Restriction Maps" tab at the new Wisconsin Manure Advisory System [exit DNR] to identify which of your fields have the highest risk of runoff and avoid spreading on them.